Secure golf holder club system

ABSTRACT

In an exemplary embodiment, a multi-club holder device includes an adaptor configured to be selectively placed in and removed from an internal seat of a golf club holder device. The multi-club holder device is configured to carry a plurality of selected golf clubs from a full set of clubs. The system includes a golf club holder device and the multi-club holder device. The golf club holder device is configured to selectively hold and cradle a handle of a single putter in an internal seat such that the handle of the putter is in an upright orientation and selectively or alternately the adaptor.

COPENDING APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority benefit of PCT ApplicationIB2010/003129, titled “SECURE GOLF CLUB HOLDER SYSTEM” filed on Dec. 2,2010 having the same inventor of the instant patent application andwhich is incorporated herein by references as if set forth in fullbelow. Additionally, this application is a continuation-in-part (CIP) ofpatent application Ser. No. 12/586,177 titled “SECURE GOLF CLUB HOLDERDEVICE”, filed Sep. 18, 2009, incorporated herein by reference as if setforth in full below.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT PROTECTION

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document and its figurescontain material subject to copyright protection. The copyright ownerhas no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patentdocument or the patent disclosure, but otherwise reserves all copyrightswhatsoever.

The present invention relates to a system of golf club holders forselectively holding and carrying one or a few golf clubs.

II. BACKGROUND

When golfing, it is common for the golfer to extract one or more clubsfrom the golf bag to play the golf game. The golfer may be undecidedabout which club to use during the game and places a club back in thebag only to grab the club again until a decision is made. Golfers maywant to have one or more clubs readily accessible for rapid retrievaland to eliminate hunting for a frequently used club nestled among manyclubs as well as reduce crowding in the golf bag while golfing.

The putter is the only club to be used at each hole, with the “wedges”being second most used in a round. Thus, for an 18-hole golf game, theputter is used at least 18 times. Although, the putter is mostfrequently used, the putter can be the most challenging to quicklyretrieve from the golf bag as the putter is generally recessed lower inthe bag then other clubs.

The putter size or length is specific to the user and the user's height.In many instances, the putter may be shorter (e.g., 33 inches or less)than the golf bag height (e.g., 35 inches). As a consequence, the putteris not easily accessible within the golf bag. Access to a golfer'sputter becomes even more problematic for short golfers, juniors andwomen, as the length of putter becomes shorter and shorter, thuslowering the putter even further in the golf bag.

Some golfers, when using a golf cart to travel from one hole to another,entangle the putter in the cart's apparatus used to secure a golf bag tothe golf cart. However, this expedient only leads to lost putters as theputter dislodges from impact forces exerted on the cart traveling overand engaging the hilly and bumpy golf course terrain. Other putters,like the “belly” length and the “broom stick” length have longer lengthsthan traditional putters to accommodate golfers with bad backs or otherphysical ailments or limitations.

Golf club holders, such as for putters, are available to hold a putteror club outside of the golf bag. However, many of these golf clubholders are not very secure. Other golf club holders may frictionallyhold the club shaft with a clamp which, over time, can affect the shaftafter repeated removal and insertion.

Some golf club holders also hold the club head upright. Thus, retrievingthe club when held in the holder is cumbersome as the handgrip is notoriented for rapid grabbing by the user. This arrangement is problematicas the head of the putter may affect the location of the other clubswith a large head mass (with or without head covers). For example, someclub heads that have an enlarged head mass with an associated head covermay be the size of a softball.

Avid golfers play golf under any weather conditions. When playing acourse, some golfers may walk the holes while some may use trolleys.Most recreational golfers employ golf carts to carry the golf bag andfull set of clubs for the length of the course. Under certainconditions, however, golf course management rules discourage or evenprohibit the use of golf carts off the designated cart path. If thefairways are wet, muddy, or undergoing seeding or aeration, golf cartsare often prohibited off the cart path. This creates a dilemma for thegolfer as the cart must remain on the cart path. However, the ball maybe a long distance away from the cart path. The golfer would generallyestimate the distance from the ball to the green or the length of thenext desired golf shot. The golfer may perform such estimation from thecart path, but the estimation may be more accurately calculated based onthe place where the ball lies. In order to not “overclub” or “underclub”the distance, the golfer needs to estimate the distances and choose theproper club(s) when arriving at the ball. Because it is both impracticaland difficult to unload and carry the entire large and heavy golf bag tothe ball on the fairway, the golfer will select a subset of golf clubsfrom the golf bag and carry those to the ball. In many instances, threegolf clubs are selected.

The shot will be made with only one of the selected (three) clubs. Thegolfer must then place the other two clubs on a fairway surface that maybe wet, muddy, or dirty while the shot is taken. The club's grip, theonly part of the club with which the golfer can control a shot, isexposed to water and debris. These contaminants can cause loss of asolid hand grip and, in some instances, loss of both ball direction anddistance, rendering the club unreliable or unusable. Towels carried outfor the purpose of cleaning the clubs and grips quickly become saturatedwith water and dirt.

Thus, the present invention provides a golf club holder systemconfigured and arranged to selectively secure a club in a golf clubholder device or selectively secure a mated connector of a secondmulti-club holder tube device in the same golf club holder device;wherein the golf club holder device of the present invention isconfigured to orient the handgrip upright so that the putter or club canbe quickly grabbed and removed from the device.

There is a need for a three-club tube with a spike at the bottom end toallow the golfer to select the three most likely clubs, place them inthe tube, and plant the spike in the fairway holding the clubs upright,clean, dry and ready for use. Similarly, there is a need for a tube thatcan hold up to six clubs with a spike at the bottom end to allow golfersto have an organized golf carrier that holds up to six clubs mostfrequently used by a golfer. As lives become busier, some golfers haveless time and may play nine holes instead of the traditional eighteen.Having a tube for carrying up to six clubs can often accommodate golferswith less time as well as potentially accommodate golfers who may want alighter load.

There is a need for a tube that can be used on par three courses, whenonly a limited number of clubs are used, allowing the golfer to carryonly what is necessary for the short length course.

There is a need for a tube for golfers practicing the putting andchipping elements of the golf game wherein the tube is a golf clubcaddy.

SUMMARY

The aforementioned problems, and other problems, are reduced, accordingto exemplary embodiments, by the golf club holder system.

In an exemplary embodiment, the golf club holder system includes a golfclub holder device configured to selectively hold and cradle a handle ofa single putter in an internal seat such that the handle of the putteris in an upright orientation. The system further includes a multi-clubholder device having an adaptor configured to be selectively placed inand removed from said internal seat, the multi-club holder deviceconfigured to carry a plurality of golf clubs.

In an exemplary embodiment, a multi-club holder device is provided. Themulti-club holder device comprises an elongated tubular structure havinga length, an open end and a closed end with a spike, the elongatedtubular structure configured to carry up to three golf clubs. Themulti-club holder device further includes an adaptor attached to anupper portion of the elongated tubular structure and being configured tobe vertically adjusted, selectively, with respect to the length, theadaptor being configured to simulate a golf ball.

In an exemplary embodiment, a multi-club holder device is provided. Themulti-club holder device comprises an elongated tubular structure havinga length, an open end and a closed end with a spike, the elongatedtubular structure configured to carry up to six golf clubs. Themulti-club holder device further includes an adaptor attached to anupper portion of the elongated tubular structure and being configured tobe vertically adjusted, selectively, with respect to the length, theadaptor being configured to simulate a golf ball.

In an exemplary embodiment, a golf club holder device is provided. Thegolf club holder device comprises a club holder having a body with aquasi-spherical shape and a recessed internal seat and an opening formedin a front of the body, the opening configured to receive a diameter ofa shaft of a golf club therethrough. The golf club holder device furtherincludes a through hole formed in the body to the seat, the through holebeing configured to recess a portion of a handgrip of a golf club withinthe club holder while suspending a remaining length of the golf clubfrom the body; and an attachment mechanism integrated with a rear sideof the body configured to attach the device to a golf bag, belt, bodypart, or other structures.

Other systems, methods, and/or products according to embodiments will beor become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of thefollowing drawings, and further description. It is intended that allsuch additional systems, methods, and/or products be included withinthis description, be within the scope of the present invention, and beprotected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The exemplary embodiments, objects, uses, advantages, and novel featuresare more clearly understood by reference to the following descriptiontaken in connection with the accompanying figures wherein:

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a golf club holder deviceattached to a golf bag in accordance with some exemplary embodiments ofthe present invention;

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the golf club holder system having amulti-club holder device engaged with the golf club holder device (shownin cross section) of FIG. 1A and attached to a golf bag in accordancewith some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 1C illustrates a partial view of the multi-club holder deviceengaged with the golf club holder device (shown in cross section) ofFIG. 1B;

FIG. 1D illustrates a side view of another golf club holder systemattached to a golf bag in accordance with some exemplary embodiments ofthe present invention;

FIG. 2A illustrates an exploded view of a multi-club holder device inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2B is a partial side view of the multi-club holder device of FIG.2A;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective side view of the system adaptor inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a system adaptor along theplane 3B-3B of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A illustrates a side view of a nut plate in accordance with someexemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 4B illustrates a cross-sectional view along the plane 4B-4B of FIG.4A;

FIG. 5A illustrates a side detail view of tongue, plate and adaptor inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 5B illustrates an alternate attachment configuration of the systemadaptor in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 5C illustrates respective one cap in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate cross-sectional and perspective views of abottom cap of a multi-club holder device in accordance with someexemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 6C and 6D illustrate side and top views of an alternate bottom capof a multi-club holder device in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate perspective and top views of a top holdercover with a handle of a multi-club holder device in accordance withsome exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 7C and 7D illustrate top views of the top holder covers for usewith multi-club holder devices in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates exploded views of the handle and shoulder strapassembly for the system of FIG. 1D in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 9A illustrates a partial perspective view of an alternatemulti-club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodimentsof the present invention;

FIG. 9B illustrates an alternate attachment member for attachment of amulti-club holder device to a golf bag in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a partial perspective view of another alternatemulti-club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodimentsof the present invention;

FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D illustrate top views of alternate shapesfor elongated tubular bodies of various multi-club holder devices inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 12A illustrates a perspective view of the golf club holder deviceof FIG. 1A;

FIG. 12B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the golf club holderdevice of FIG. 12A along the plane 12B-12B;

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of yet another golf club holderdevice in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 13B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the golf club holderdevice of FIG. 13A along the plane 13B-13B.

DESCRIPTION

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example,instance, or illustration.” Any configuration or design described hereinas “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other configurations or designs. Furthermore, use ofthe words “present invention” is used herein to convey only some of theembodiments of the invention. For example, the word “present invention”would also include alternative embodiments and equivalent systems andcomponents that one of ordinary skill in the art understands. An exampleis that the materials used for the exemplary embodiments may be made outof man-made materials, natural materials, and combinations thereof. Afurther example is that the apparatus or components of the apparatus maybe manufactured by machine(s), human(s) and combinations thereof.

Some of the embodiments of the invention now will be described morefully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in whichexemplary embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided sothat this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully conveythe scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art.Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention,as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass bothstructural and functional equivalents thereof Additionally, it isintended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalentsas well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elementsdeveloped that perform the same function, regardless of structure).

The golf club holder system includes a golf club holder deviceconfigured to selectively hold and cradle a handle of a single putter inan internal seat such that the handle of the putter is in an uprightorientation; and a multi-club holder device having an adaptor configuredto be selectively held and cradled in said internal seat. The multi-clubholder device is configured to carry a plurality of golf clubs, and morepreferably, at least one to six golf clubs.

In some exemplary embodiments, the golf club holder system may include agolf club holder device, a multi-club holder device and a golf club bag.

In some of the exemplary embodiments, the multi-club holder device has agenerally triangular, tube-like shape dimensioned to hold up to threeclubs or in an alternate configuration up to six clubs. However, as oneof ordinary skill in the art appreciates, the multi-club holder devicemay be alternate shapes such as circular, oval, clover leaf, square,rectangular, and a variety of other shapes.

According to some exemplary embodiments, a golf club holder (GCH) deviceis provided. The GCH device includes a club holder having an exteriorperimeter surface configured to simulate a golf ball. A front opening ofthe club holder is configured to receive a club shaft therethrough. Agolf club, generally, has a head at one end of the club shaft(hereinafter referred to as a “clubhead end”) and a handgrip at anopposite end (hereinafter referred to as a “handgrip end”). Aconventional club shaft is tapered with the handgrip end having thelarger diameter and the first end nearest the club head having thesmaller diameter. The GCH device is configured to recess a portion ofthe handgrip within the club holder while suspending the remaininglength of the golf club from the device. The shaft may be made of alightweight metal, graphite, or other metal composites.

The GCH device, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention, includes an attachment mechanism configured to attachto a golf club bag, person, trolley, carts or other structures. Theattachment mechanism may include a clip or a slot for attachment of aband, strap or other fastening members. In alternate embodiments, theGCH device may be integrated into the golf club bag, such as molded intoan upper lip or rim at the top of the golf club bag.

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective side views of a GCH device 1200 inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. TheGCH device 1200 includes an attachment mechanism configured to attach toa golf club bag shown as golf club bag 100A. Golf club bag 100A includesa shoulder strap 106A with ends 116A and 126A attached to the golf bag100A.

The golf bag 100A further includes a top rim 104 and, near the top rim104, a plurality of snaps 108 spaced around the golf bag. The pluralityof snaps 108 may be used to install a golf bag cover used to close theopening into the golf bag. Nonetheless, the golf bag may include snapsat other locations. The GCH device 1200, as best seen in FIGS. 12A and12B, is clipped onto or over the top edge of the rim 104 such that theclub holder of GCH device 1200 is positioned outside of the golf bag100A.

FIG. 12A illustrates a perspective view of the GCH device 1200 of FIG.1A. Additionally, FIG. 12B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the GCHdevice 1200 of FIG. 12A along the plane 12B-12B. The GCH device 1200includes an attachment mechanism 1210 configured to attach to a golfclub bag, person, or other structures. The GCH device 1200 furtherincludes a club holder 1230 coupled to or integrated with the attachmentmechanism 1210.

In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 1230 includes a body 1232configured to simulate a golf ball. The body 1232 is quasi-sphericallyshaped structure with a plurality of indentions or dimples 1234 formedin the exterior perimeter surface of the body 1232.

The quasi-spherical shape of the body 1232 includes a sphericalstructure having a truncated upper portion and a truncated bottomportion. Additionally, a rear portion of the spherical structure may nottrack a generally spherical shape as a portion of the rear side of thespherical structure is integrated with the attachment mechanism 1210.The body 1232 has a through hole formed through the truncated upperportion down to and through the truncated bottom portion. Furthermore,the front of the body 1232 has an opening 1238 configured to receive ashaft of a golf club therethrough. The body 1232 includes an internalseat 1260 to support within the body 1232, a portion of a handgrip ofthe golf club.

The attachment mechanism 1210 includes a U-shaped clip. The U-shapedclip includes one or more teeth, ledges or barbs 1255, 1256 on at leastone leg (second leg 1216). In the exemplary embodiment, there are twoteeth, ledges or barbs 1255, 1256 constructed and arranged to be incontact with the outside of the golf bag 100A (FIG. 1A) when slippedonto the rim 104 of the golf bag.

In the exemplary embodiments, the teeth, ledges or barbs 1255, 1256 arespaced apart along the length of the leg (second leg 1216) atapproximately ⅓ height increments and radiate in toward the inside ofthe clip. The barbs 1255, 1256 may be narrow in width or wide in width.A wide width barb would allow a single barb to extend along the entirewidth of the clip. A narrow width barb would form a single barb or toothof a couple or few millimeters. Thus, one or more barbs may be placedalong the same line, same plane or at different locations.

The U-shaped clip includes a first leg 1214 and second leg 1216 joinedtogether via an arch or curvature 1212. The first leg 1214 is tapered inthe direction toward the second leg 1216 along the length and toward thebottom. For example, the distance between the legs 1214 and 1216 narrowstoward the bottom such that the distance between the legs 1214 and 1216decreases.

The bottom end of the first leg 1214 includes a barb, ledge or tooth1275 directed toward the opposite (second) leg 1216. The barb, ledge ortooth 1275 may be narrow in width or wide in width. A wide width wouldallow a single barb to extend along the entire width of the clip. Anarrow width would form a single barb or tooth of a couple or fewmillimeters. The barb, ledge or tooth 1275 extends the width of thefirst leg 1214.

The top of each barb has a generally straight edge or line and radiatesor protrudes from the interior surfaces of the first and second legs1214 and 1216. The barbs include a depending edge that tapers or slopesback toward the interior surface of the leg from which the barb depends.For example, the depending edge of barbs 1255 and 1256 slope or taperback toward the second leg 1216. The depending edge of barb 1275 slopesor tapers back toward the first leg 1214. Thus, the barbs, ledge orteeth on the first and second legs 1214 and 1216 engage or grip the golfbag to minimize or prevent the GCH device 1200 from slipping off of thegolf bag as the putter or golf club is raised out of the seat. As can beappreciated, the barbs, ledge or teeth on the first and second legs 1214and 1216 provide gripping to minimize or prevent the GCH device 1200from becoming dislodged from its intended location.

In an exemplary embodiment, the slot opening dimension D, the width ofopening 1238, is approximately 12.2 mm or 0.48″.

The height H1 of the GCH device 1200 is approximately 2.453 inches; theheight H2 of the club holder 1230 is approximately 1.054 inches; and thewidth W of the GCH device 1200 is approximately 1.999 inches. As can beappreciated other dimensions may be used for example, the height of theclub holder may be made longer or shorter. The height H1 of the GCHdevice 1200 may be made longer or shorter. Many other dimensions may bevaried.

Returning again to FIG. 1A, when the GCH device 1200 is attached to thetop rim 104 or other suitable locations of a golf bag, the club holder1230 (FIG. 12A) is configured to hold and retain a golf club (e.g.,putter) within the body, in a first mode of operation such that thehandle of a golf club or putter is cradled within the club holder 1230.In one exemplary embodiment, the club holder 1230 is positioned outsideof the golf bag. Thus, the club holder 1230 is configured to suspend aputter or golf club vertically and parallel to a longitudinal axis ofthe golf bag.

The GCH device 1200 may alternatively be configured to attach to a belt,strap, band, pocket, fabric, plate or other thin structures.

In second mode of operation, the club holder 1230 (FIG. 12A) isconfigured to hold and cradle a system adaptor 201 (FIG. 2A) as will bedescribed in more detail in relation to FIGS. 1B, 1C and 2.

In a third mode of operation, the GCH device 1200 may be clipped to abelt worn about the waist or other structures previous described. Thus,the multi-club holder device 200, when coupled to the GCH device 1200,would hang down along a leg of the person wearing the belt.

As will be seen from the description below, the system provides manymodes of operation based on the situational use of one or more devicesof the golf club holder system 150 (FIG. 1B).

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the golf club holder system 150having a multi-club holder device 200 (FIG. 2A) engaged with the GCHdevice 1200 (shown in cross section) of FIG. 1A. The system 150 is shownattached to golf bag 100B. FIG. 1C illustrates a partial view of themulti-club holder device 200 engaged with the GCH device 1200 (shown incross section) of FIG. 1B. The golf club bag 100B is slightly differentfrom golf club bag 100A and includes a shoulder strap 106B that isattached with hardware 116B and 126B bolted, hinged, or integrated intoa side wall of the bag 100B. The golf club bag 100B may include manyother features and variations. The system 150 does not requireattachment to a golf bag. Instead, system 150 may be worn from, withoutlimitation, a belt of a user.

The multi-club holder device 200 will now be described in relation toFIGS. 2A and 2B.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate exploded and partial views of the multi-clubholder device 200 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention. The multi-club holder device 200 comprises anelongated tubular body 210, a top holder cover 220, a system adaptor 201and a bottom wall member 240.

The elongated tubular body 210 includes a top open end 230 and a bottomend 235. The bottom wall member 240 is configured to be affixed to andclose the bottom end 235. The top open end 230 has coupled there to theholder cover 220.

The top holder cover 220 is configured to track the profile or contourof the top open end 230 of the elongated tubular body 210. The detailsof the top holder cover 220 are described in detail in relation to FIGS.7A and 7B. The top holder cover 220 may be made of plastic, rubber,polypropylene or padding material. The holder cover 220 may be used tobuffer any impact forces exerted on the golf club shaft or head whenwalking, carrying the golf bag or at other times the multi-club holderdevice 200 is in motion and the golf clubs may be jostled.

The top holder cover 220 is constructed and arranged to include aplurality of partitions to create designated golf club holding slots221. In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, there are three partitions to creategolf club holding slots wherein each slot would only hold therein theshaft and/or handle of a golf club.

Referring also to FIGS. 7A and 7B, perspective and top views of the topholder cover 220 are shown. The top holder cover 220 includes aperimeter rim cover 227 contoured and fits over the top open end 230. Inthe interior of the perimeter rim cover 227, a Y-shaped partition wallmember 228, as best seen in FIG. 7B, is integrated with the perimeterrim cover 227 to form the plurality of golf club holding slots 221. Theplurality of partitions are created by the Y-shaped partition wallmember. The top holder cover 220 further includes handle 222 positionedat a first location on the holder cover 220 and a tongue 214 positionedat a second location on the holder cover 220 substantially diametricallyopposing the location of handle 222.

The handle 222 includes grip pads 222A for the placement of a user'sfingers. On each side of the handle 222, rings 229 integrated into theperimeter rim cover 227 for attachment of golfing accessories thereto.The golfing accessories may include a towel with a hook or clip forattachment to a ring 229.

The tongue 214 includes a series of holes 214A vertically spaced alongthe length thereof. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, thereare five holes; however, more or less holes may be provided. A connectornut plate 226 (FIG. 4A) is coupled behind the tongue 214. The systemadaptor 201 is removable from and attachable to any one of the holes214A. The system adaptor 201 includes a ball-shaped member 224 and asupport rod 212, as will be described in more detail in relation toFIGS. 3A and 3B.

The system adaptor 201 is adjustable so that the vertical height of thetubular body 210 in relation to the golf bag may be adjusted such thatthe spike 250 is above ground, may be adjusted for the height of theuser or for comfort when carrying. The system adaptor 201 includes aball-shaped member 224 portion and a support rod 212 as shown in FIGS.3A and 3B.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a perspective side view and across-sectional view of the system adaptor in accordance with someexemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown. Specifically,FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a system adaptor along theplane 3B-3B of FIG. 3A. The system adaptor 201 includes a ball-shapedmember 224 having a generally spherical shape with a dimpled externalperimeter surface 325 with a plurality of dimples 330. A support rod 212is integrated with the ball-shaped member 224.

The support rod 212 includes an internal center rod 320 and a rod sleeve312 concentric to and around the internal center rod 320. A rodextension 326 extends beyond sleeve 312. In the exemplary embodiment,the internal center rod 320 is perpendicular coupled to cross bar member324 to form a T-shaped structure. The end 314 of the sleeve 312 istapered to the rod extension 326 of the internal center rod 320. Thefree end of the internal center rod 320 has formed therein, coupledthereto or applied thereto, threads 340 for removal attachment to theholes 214A (FIG. 2A).

The system adaptor may also include a spring biased ball-shaped memberwherein the ball-shaped member would be spring biased to be in one ofthe holes and could be slid to another hole and automatically springbiased in position of the new hole.

Alternately, the system adaptor may be attached in a variety of mannersto the tubular body such as in a slide channel which would permit theadaptor to be adjustably fixed or secured to a respective one positionof a plurality of positions.

FIG. 4A illustrates a side view of the connector nut plate 226 inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.FIG. 4B illustrates a cross-sectional view along the plane 4B-4B of FIG.4A. The connector nut plate 226 includes a plurality of holes 410 spacedalong a length of plate 420. As best seen in FIG. 4B, each hole 410includes channel 430 for securing the threads 340 within the channel430. The channel 430 extends beyond plate 420.

FIG. 5A illustrates a side detail view of tongue, plate and adaptor inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Thesystem adaptor may be positioned in any of the holes 410 of a nut plate226 shown in detail in FIGS. 4A and 4B. Open holes 214A on tongue 214(See FIG. 7A) may be plugged with cap 550 shown in FIG. 5A. The nutplate 226 includes five holes 410 (FIG. 4A) that align with the holes214A of tongue 214 such that threads 540 of the support rod 526 of theadaptor is positioned as shown in the exemplary embodiments of FIG. 5A.

The top of the tongue 559 wraps over the body 210 wherein the bottom ofthe tongue 557 extends and is in surface to surface contact with theexterior of body 210. Sections 555 are between each hole. The adaptorincludes ball-shaped member 524 and threads 540. Plate 560 is optional(shown in phantom) for added reinforcement. The plate 560 may be used torecess the end or tip of the threads, if the length extends through body210. The clubs may engage the threads during movement. The plate 560would protect the threads and clubs.

In addition, FIG. 5B illustrates a system adapter comprising analternate arrangement that include side wall with the top rimsurrounding an exterior surface of a T-shaped support rod 585 having athreaded end 585 for attaching a ball-shaped member 524 via a matedfemale aperture.

In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular body 210 is configured to beattached to or hung from and alongside an exterior surface of aconventional golf club bag. The tubular body 210 also has a size andshape that allows the device 200 to be received in one of the partitionopenings of the conventional golf bags for temporary storage. Therefore,when the multi-club holder device 200 is not in use, the device 200 canbe stored inside the conventional golf bag without the need to removethose golf clubs already stored in the multi-club holder device 200.

The ball-shaped member may provide the user with a comfortable hand gripby which to carry the multi-club holder device 200 with the golf clubsplaced therein. The ball-shaped member of adaptor is used to hang themulti-club holder device 200 from the GCH device 1200 or other GCHdevice embodiments described herein.

The adaptor is adjustable along the length of the elongated tubular body210. The adaptors shown in phantom illustrate that they may be removedand inserted at a different location. The threaded rod is rotated sothat the ball-shaped member may be removed from the end of the threadedshank. Thereafter, the threaded rod may be removed or pulled out from arespective one hole in the elongated tubular body 210 to which theadaptor was secured. The adaptor may be moved to one of the differentholes. The adaptor may then be secured to the new hole by screwing thethreaded shank into the ball-shaped member through the sleeve.

FIG. 5B illustrates an alternate attachment configuration of the systemadaptor in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention. In this embodiment, the top cover 589 embeds a T-shapedanchor 583 to support a ball 584, serving as the adaptor. The end 587 ofthe top cover 589 is closed and overlaps over the body 210 in proximityto the top. This embodiment does not allow the adaptor to be adjustedalong the length of the body 210 such a provided for in the embodimentof FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C illustrates respective one cap 550 in accordance with someexemplary embodiments of the present invention. The head 570 (phantom)of the cap 550 is shown as a hexagonal. The cap may be rounded.

Returning again to FIG. 2A, the bottom end 235 of the tubular body 210is closed via the bottom wall member 240 and includes a spike 250. Thespike 250 is an elongated rod configured to be embedded in the ground tosupport the elongated tubular body 210 vertically upright. The free endof the spike 250 may include a point 255 so that the spike 250 canpierce the ground. The end 257 of spike 250, opposite the point 255, isembedded into the bottom wall member 240.

Returning again to FIGS. 1B and 1C, in the exemplary embodiments, whenthe GCH device 1200 is attached to a rim or other suitable location of agolf bag 100B, the club holder 1200 is configured to hold and retain theball-shaped member 224 with the support rod 212 extending throughopening 1238 (FIG. 12A) when the GCH device 1200 and multi-club holderdevice 200 are mated and secured together and held in place via gravity.The interior design configuration of the club holder 1230 (FIG. 12A) isconfigured to hold a spherical-shaped or ball-shaped member 224 attachedto a support rod 212 of a multi-club holder device 200.

In lieu of gravity acting on the multi-golf club holder 200 to seat theball-shaped member 224 and support rod 212, automatically, the user maydirect ball-shaped member 224 into the seat once the ball-shaped member224 has cleared the opening and is fully in the through hole.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate cross-sectional and perspective views of abottom cap of a multi-club holder device in accordance with someexemplary embodiments of the present invention. In the exemplaryembodiment, the bottom end 235 has the spike 250 mounted to and in thecenter of a bottom wall member 240. A top end of the spike 250 mayinclude a rasping surface. The spike 250 is mounted within a center hubformed in the bottom wall member 240 wherein the center hub forms aprojection above the bottom wall member 240. A hole is formed in the topof the center hub. The bottom wall member 240 further includes aplurality of holes 280 configured to permit water, air or moisture topass therethrough. The bottom wall member 240 further includes a floor655 having a plurality of radiating ribs 630 in a predefined pattern andvertical perimeter wall. In one embodiment, the ribs 630 are concaved.The concaved profile may serve as a club seat so that the handle of thegolf club would be slide to the lowest point of the concaved rib. Thus,there may be a reduction in movement while the club is in the club seat(concaved rib).

As best seen in FIG. 6A, the predefined pattern is used to support ahandle of a golf club above the bottom wall member 240 so that the griphandle does not rest in water should water drip to the bottom wallmember 240. As will be described in more detail later, the tubular body210 is configured to hold therein a few clubs selected from the full setof golf clubs contained in a conventional golf club bag. Ribs 640 areconcaved and spaced on side of the holes. The ribs 640 are generallyarranged to create a concentric circle around the center hub 657A.

All ribs described herein may have a portion which is constructed andarranged to provide a club seat such as by providing a concaved profile.

The tube closure element includes a shape, as best seen in FIG. 6B, thattracks the opening of the bottom end 235 of the elongated tubular body210. Near the perimeter edge of the bottom wall member 240, a verticalperimeter wall is perpendicularly dependent from the bottom wall member240 and is configured to be friction fit coupled into the opening of thetubular body 210. The vertical perimeter wall is positioned near thedistal edge of the bottom wall member 240 but leaves a perimeter lip 660having a width that coincides with the width of the wall of theelongated tubular body 210. Thus, when the tube closure element isinserted in the tube closure element, the lip provides a stop.

In the exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the vertical perimeterwall is narrower at the top end than the bottom end where the wall isintegrated or attached to the bottom wall member 240 to accommodatefriction fit coupling between the tubular body 210 and the tube closureelement.

The multi-club holder device 200 may have three golf clubs. The golferwould remove the multi-club holder device 200 from the golf bag or fromthe GCH device if hung therefrom. The golfer would walk out to theirdestination on the green and embed the spike 250 into the ground suchthat the multi-club holder device 200 stands upright. The golfer maythen remove one of the golf clubs stored in the multi-club holder device200. After the golfer is finished hitting his or her shot, the golf clubis placed back into the multi-club holder device 200 such that thehandle end of the golf club is received first in the top open end 230 ofthe multi-club holder device 200 so that the club heads of the golf clubare visible to the golfer through the device 200.

The system in view of the foregoing includes a multi-club holder device200 comprising a tube closure element configured to be coupled andsecured to said bottom end. The tube closure element comprises a bottomwall member having a center hub to which the spike is attached; and aplurality of radiating ribs radiating from said center hub 657A.

In the system, the tube closure element includes a perimeter verticalwall coupled perpendicularly to the bottom wall wherein the perimetervertical wall is friction fit coupled in said bottom end.

In the system, the plurality of radiating ribs may be spaced atequidistant intervals and the bottom wall includes a hole 680, 688 topermit moisture air or fluid passage.

FIGS. 6C and 6D illustrate side and top views of an alternate bottom capof a multi-club holder device in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. The bottom wall member 640 has acenter hub 693. The bottom wall member 640 includes holes 690 andradiating ribs 694. T-shaped ribs 691 and 692 radiate from ribs 694.

In the system, the golf club holder device (e.g., GCH device 1200)comprises: a club holder having a body with a quasi-spherical shape anda recessed internal seat; an opening formed in front of the body, theopening configured to receive a diameter of a shaft of a golf clubtherethrough; a through hole formed in the body to the seat, the throughhole being configured to recess a portion of a handgrip of a golf clubwithin the club holder while suspending a remaining length of the golfclub from the body; and an attachment mechanism integrated with a rearside of the body configured to attach the device to a golf bag, belt,body part, or other structures.

In the system, the attachment mechanism includes one of a clip or a slotfor attachment of a band or strap. Other attachment mechanisms are alsodescribed herein.

In the system, the clip is a U-shaped clip with barbs, teeth or ledgeson the interior leg surfaces to grip a golf bag, as best seen in FIGS.1B, 1C and 1D.

FIG. 1C illustrates a side view of a secure golf club system 100C withthe GCH device shown in cross-section in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. The secure golf club system 100Cincludes a GCH device 1200 and a multi-club holder device 800. The GCHdevice 1200 is representative of the GCH device in FIGS. 12A and 12Bwith the barbs or teeth shown. Nonetheless, other GCH devices describedherein may be used. The multi-club holder device 800 may have athree-club design (FIGS. 7A or 7B) or a six-club design (FIGS. 7C and7D).

The internal seat 1260 of the GCH device 1200 receives, cradles andholds the ball-shaped member of the system adaptor. The length of thesleeve should allow the ball-shaped member to fit in the internal seatwithout being obstructed when slid or seated into place. The GCH device1200 is shown clipped or attached to golf bag.

FIGS. 7C and 7D illustrate top views of alternate embodiments of the topholder covers 720C and 720D for use with multi-club holder devices inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Thetop holder cover 720C is configured to hold up to six golf clubs. Thus,the multi-club holder device employing top holder cover 720C would be asix-club holder device.

The top holder cover 720C comprises a perimeter rim 727 to cover the topopen end or edge of the elongated tubular body (e.g., body 210) of asix-club holder device in accordance with exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention. The top holder cover 720C further comprises a firstplurality of cross bar members 718A, 718B and 718C coupled to theperimeter rim 827 and to each other to form a plurality of openings 7O1,7O2 and 7O3. Specifically, the first plurality of cross bar members718A, 718B and 718C forms a Y-shape grid within the perimeter rim 727 toform the openings 7O1, 7O2 and 7O3. Each opening is configured to hold asingle club and preferably, each opening 7O1, 7O2 or 7O3 is configuredto hold a single club shank with the club's handle oriented inside ofthe elongated tubular body.

The top holder cover 720C may be used to buffer any impact forcesexerted on the golf club shaft/shank or head when walking, carrying thegolf bag or at other times the device 200 (FIG. 2A) is in motion and thegolf clubs may be jostled.

The top holder cover 720C further comprises a second plurality of crossbar members 719A, 719B and 719C. The second plurality of cross barmembers 719A, 719B and 719C comprises a first cross bar section 719Acoupled perpendicular to a center leg (cross-bar member 718A) of saidY-shape defined the first plurality of cross bar members 718A, 718B and718C; a second cross bar section 719B angled with respect to one end ofthe first cross bar section 719A; and a third cross bar section 719Cangled with respect to a second end of the first cross bar section 719A.The second cross bar section 719B completes the opening 7O2. The thirdcross bar section 719C completes the opening 7O3.

There is a generally obtuse angle between the second cross bar section719B and the first end of the first cross bar section 719A; and anobtuse angle between the third cross bar section 719C and the second endof the first cross bar section 719A.

There is an opening 7O4 between the perimeter rim 727 and the secondplurality of cross bar members 719A, 719B and 719C. The opening 7O4includes two apices 7A2 and 7A3 and may accommodate up to three clubstherein. Opening 7O1 includes apex 7A1.

In proximity to apex 7A1, the handle 722 is integrated with theperimeter rim 727. The opposite side of the handle 722, hole 714A isshown in phantom to denote the location for attachment of the systemadaptor.

In FIG. 7D, the strap 787 is attached via a Y-shaped connector 785. Thetop holder cover 720D includes a plurality of holes 792. The top holdercover 720D is similar to top holder cover 720C. Thus no furtherdiscussion is necessary. However, the handle 722 is different in theembodiment of 720D which includes a strap and handle (See FIG. 8).

FIG. 9A illustrates a partial perspective view of an alternatemulti-club holder device 900 in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. In the embodiment of FIG. 9A, themulti-club holder device 900 is similar to the multi-club holder device200 and includes an elongated tubular body 910. However, the top holdercover 920 of the multi-club holder device 900 includes a U-shaped clip925 for attachment directly to a golf bag (e.g., golf bag 100A, 100B or100D) and does not include a system adaptor. In this embodiment, thedevice 1200 and device 900 may be used separately or individually. Theclip 925 includes one or more teeth, ledges or barbs 929 on at least oneleg and teeth, ledges or barbs 927 on a second leg. In the exemplaryembodiment, the teeth, ledges or barbs 929 and 927 may be similar toteeth, ledges or barbs 1255, 1256 previously described in relation toFIGS. 12A and 12B. The U-shaped clip 925 may be slipped onto the rim 104of the golf bag (e.g., golf bag 100A, 100B or 100D). The U-shaped clip925 is attached to top holder cover 920.

Additionally, the top holder cover 920 does not have designated golfclub holding slots 221. Instead, the top holder cover 920 provides onesingle opening for the placement of one or more golf clubs.

FIG. 9B illustrates an alternate attachment member for attachment of amulti-club holder device (e.g., device 900) to a golf bag in accordancewith some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The U-shapeclip 950 is integrated into the band 930 that slips around the elongatedtubular body 910. The clip 950 includes one or more teeth, ledges orbarbs 939 on at least one leg 934 (an exterior face of the band 930) andteeth, ledges or barbs 937 on a second leg 935. The exterior face ofband 930 serves as a leg 934 for the teeth, ledges or barbs 939. In theexemplary embodiment, the teeth, ledges or barbs 939 and 937 may besimilar to teeth, ledges or barbs 1255, 1256 previously described inrelation to FIGS. 12A and 12B. The U-shaped clip 950 may be slipped ontothe rim 104 of the golf bag (e.g., golf bag 100A, 100B or 100D).

FIG. 10 illustrates a partial perspective view of another alternatemulti-club holder device 1000 in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. In the embodiment of FIG. 10, themulti-club holder device 1000 is similar to the multi-club holder device900 and includes an elongated tubular body 1010. However, the top holdercover 1020 of the multi-club holder device 1000 has a single opening forplacing therein one or more golf clubs and includes a system adaptor1001. The system adaptor 1001 includes a ball-shaped member 1024 forattachment to GCH device 1200. More specifically, the ball-shaped member1024 may be permanently affixed to top holder cover 1020. Theball-shaped member 1024 has dimples and may simulate a golf ball. Theshape of the ball-shaped member 1024 is configured to be mated andsecured, such as via gravity, in club holder 1230 (FIG. 12A) coupled toor integrated with the attachment mechanism 1210.

FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D illustrate top views of alternate shapesfor the elongated tubular bodies of various multi-club holder devices inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

The elongated tubular bodies 1110A, 1110B, 1110C, and 1110D,respectively, have interior openings including a spherically shapedopening 1115A, a clover-leaf shaped opening 1115B, a bowed triangularshaped opening 1115C and nearly planar triangular shaped opening 1115D,respectively.

According to alternate embodiments, the elongated tubular body may havea quasi-triangular shape having an isosceles or equilateral shape. Eachside may have the same length but instead of straight sides, each sideis slightly arched, curved, bowed or convexed.

In the embodiment of FIG. 11B, the clover-leaf shaped opening 1115Bincludes three openings, each having a generally circular shape arrangedin a clover shape. As can be appreciated, the clover-leaf shaped opening1115B may have four circles arranged in a four-leaf clover shape. Otherconfigurations are contemplated. The system adaptor 1101B is placed inbetween two adjacent circles.

In the embodiment of FIG. 11B, the bottom wall member 1140B includesdrain holes 1150B and club support ribs 1145B that radiate from centersupport 1146. The club support ribs 1145B may be straight or curved asshown in FIG. 6A.

With respect to FIG. 11C, the elongated tubular body 1110C may have aquasi-triangular shaped having an isosceles or equilateral shape. Eachside of the quasi-triangular shape may have the same length but insteadof a linear profile or straight profile, the sides are slightly arched,curved, bowed or convexed. The apices are generally rounded. In FIG.11D, the apices are generally rounded.

Referring now to FIG. 1D, a side view of another golf club holder system150′ attached to a golf bag 100D in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention is shown. FIG. 8 illustrates anexploded view of a handle and shoulder strap assembly 260′ in accordancewith some exemplary embodiments of the present invention for use withsystem 150′. Gold bag 100D is similar to golf bag 100B, thus no furtherdiscussion is necessary. The golf club holder system 150′ includes GCH1200 and multi-club holder device 200′ wherein the multi-club holderdevice 200′ includes handle and shoulder strap assembly 260′, thedetails of which are best seen in FIG. 8.

The handle and shoulder strap assembly 260′ is attached to the elongatedtubular body 210′. Therefore, the top holder cover 220′ of themulti-club holder device 200′ does not include a handle (e.g., handle222) or tongue (e.g., tongue 214). Instead, it includes a cover orsheath the fits over the top edge of the elongated tubular body 210′ tobuffer the clubs. The multi-club holder device 200′ further includes oneor more holes formed therein for attachment of system adaptor 201′.

On the other hand, the top holder cover 220′ may be provided with atongue (e.g., tongue 214) with holes for attachment of the systemadaptor.

The handle and shoulder strap assembly 260′ includes a handle 270′ and ashoulder strap 290′. The ends of the handle 270′ are attached to theelongated tubular body 210′ via handle connector elements 845 whereinthe handle 270′ is fastened to each handle connector element 845 viafastener 852. The handle 270′ provides a hand grip or handle configuredto be griped with a user's hand that allows the user to lift theelongated tubular body 210′ in and out of GCH device 1200.

The handle 270′ may be the preferred method of lifting the elongatedtubular body 210′ such that the system adaptor 201′ is elevated to andout of the internal seat (e.g., seat 1260) of the GCH device 1200.Additionally, the handle 270′ may allow the golfer or user to hold andcarry the multi-club holder device 200′.

Ends of the shoulder strap 290′ are attached to the elongated tubularbody 210′ via strap connector elements 865 wherein the shoulder strap290′ is fastened to the strap connector elements 865 via fasteners 862.The distal ends of strap 290′ include fasteners 862 which may be clipsor hooks that are configured to be affixed to the strap connectorelements 865. The clips may be D-clips.

In the exemplary embodiment, the handle connector elements 845 and thestrap connector elements 865 are shown as separate connector bodies.However, each pair of the handle connector elements 845 and the strapconnector elements 865 may integrate into a single connector body suchthat there is no separation between the top handle connector elements845 and the strap connector elements 865 and no separation between thebottom handle connector elements 845 and the strap connector elements865.

In another exemplary embodiment, both handle connector elements 845 andboth strap connector elements 865 may all be integrated into a singleconnector body such that there is no separation between the top andbottom handle connector elements 845 and the top and bottom strapconnector elements 865.

The handle 270′ may be made of a base material such as nylon material,synthetic material, etc. and a sleeve over the base material. The sleevemay be made of rubber, plastic, cushioning material suitable forgripping. The shoulder strap 290′ may be made of a durable materialsuitable for a shoulder strap function.

In an exemplary embodiment, the handle connector elements 845 may have aV-shaped base to which an eyelet is affixed for attachment of the handle270′ via the fastener.

The strap connector elements 865 may include a buckle type system,button, snap, Velcro, etc. The strap 290′ may be a belt, strap, band,etc. configured to be secured to structures or a person's body (e.g.,shoulder). The strap 290′ can be placed vertically or horizontally sothat the attachment mechanisms can be readily adaptable to a variety ofattachment structures. Attachment structures may include, withoutlimitation, belts, belt loops, wrists, golf bags, hooks, golf cart andpegs. The strap 290′ can be used to hang from a variety of attachmentstructures.

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate perspective and cross-sectional views ofyet another secure golf club holder device 1300 in accordance with someexemplary embodiments of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 13Bis a cross-sectional view along the plane 13B-13B of FIG. 13A. The GCHdevice 1300 includes a club holder 1330 and attachment mechanism 1310.The club holder 1330 is connected to or integrated with the attachmentmechanism 1310 via a connection bridge 1325. In the exemplaryembodiment, the club holder 1330 is similar to the club holder 1230described in detail above. However, the internal seat is slightlydifferent in that the interior surface has less depth of taper. Thedescription below will focus on the details of the attachment mechanism1310. The club holder 1330 includes a through hole 1350 to receive of aclub's handle or the system adaptor. The club holder 1330 includes aninternal seat 1360 to support within the body 1332, a portion of ahandgrip of the golf club or the system adaptor 201.

In FIGS. 13A and 13B, the attachment mechanism 1310 includes a connectorplate 1312 which is essentially straight. An upper portion 1314 of theconnector plate 1312 has wall 1316 coupled to and integrated therewith.The wall 1316 is parallel to the upper portion 1314 and spaced therefromto form a hollow passage 1326 having aligned slots 1318 being elongatedvertically. The slots 1318 are configured to pass therethrough a strap,band, belt, etc., in a horizontal or first plane. A bottom end of theconnector plate 1312 has rounded edges 1320.

The upper portion 1314 is connected to an integrated with the wall 1316via top and bottom spacer sections having aligned slots 1324A and 1324B,respectively, being vertically separated, as best seen in FIG. 13B. Theslots 1324A and 1324B are configured to feed or receive therethrough astrap, belt, band, etc. The slots 1324A and 1324B are open to the hollowpassage 1326. The slots 1324A and 1324B are opened to the hollow passage1326 from and through the top and bottom portions of the wall 1316.

The upper portion 1314 extends above the body 1332 so that a frontsurface on the upper portion 1314 is provided. This front surface isconfigured to have logos and advertisements in graved, embossed, etched,painted, applied or otherwise integrated with the front surface.

The attachment mechanism 1310 is a multi-directional band coupler whichincludes a first pair of aligned slots (e.g., slots 1318) to receive astrap or band in a horizontal direction or first direction. Themulti-directional coupler further includes a second pair of alignedslots (e.g., slots 1324A and 1324B) configured to receive a strap orband 20 in the second direction wherein the first direction and thesecond direction are perpendicular.

The front surface of the attachment mechanism is suitable for engraving,painting, applying or affixing a Logo, advertisement, Trade name,Trademark or other decals thereto.

The GCH devices may be made of natural material, man-made material,recycled material or a combination of natural, man-made or recycledmaterials. In one embodiment, the GCH device, systems or golf clubholders described herein is made of “green” (environmentally friendly)materials.

In an exemplary embodiment, the GCH devices, systems and golf clubholders are lightweight and made of molded plastic. The GCH devices,system and golf club holders described herein may be made of a varietyof colors.

In an exemplary embodiment, the GCH devices, systems and golf clubholders or portions thereof may be coated with a coating to resemble orsimulate a golf ball texture or smoothness.

Accordingly, the GCH devices and systems of the present inventionprovide a club holder for attachment to the rim of a golf bag or otherstructures for separately retaining a putter or golf club to make suchputter or club readily obtainable or easily accessible.

Accordingly, the GCH devices and systems of the present inventionprovide a club holder for attachment to the rim of a golf bag or otherstructures for separately retaining a putter or golf club on the outsideof the golf bag or along side of a leg of a user with the handgripupright and immediately accessible for lifting directly from theholder's internal seat.

As can be appreciated, any of the attachment mechanisms of the GCHdevices may be interchanged with another attachment mechanism describedherein or other quick-release attachment mechanisms.

Furthermore, any one of the club holder devices described herein may beintegrated with a different attachment mechanism or other quick-releaseattachment mechanism.

The GCH device may be configured to hold and cradle an umbrella so thatthe handle of the umbrella remains dry.

The GCH device may be configured to hold and cradle in the seat(s) oneor more golf balls.

The GCH device may be configured to hold and cradle in the seat manyother objects, tools, supplies, and coins for use by the golfer.

The GCH device may be configured to hold and cradle in the seat abeverage container.

The GCH device is described such that the handgrip is recessed in theseat, in a first mode of operation. Thus, the club head is orientedvertically below the handgrip with the handgrip oriented verticallyupright. However, the GCH device may support the club head verticallyupright with the handgrip vertically below the club head. In a secondmode of operation, the GCH device is used in combination with amulti-club holder device wherein the seat holds and cradles the systemadaptor.

The spherical dimension or diameter of the club holder may vary. Thespherical diameter may closely track the size of a golf ball. The widthof the attachment mechanism may be bigger than the diameter of the clubholder such that from a rear view, the club holder would not be seen.

The elongated tubular body of the multi-club holder devices describedherein may be made of plastic, metal, or other lightweight rigidmaterials.

While the present invention has been described with respect to variousfeatures, aspects, and embodiments, those skilled and unskilled in theart will recognize the invention is not so limited. Other variations,modifications, and alternative embodiments may be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the present invention.

1-25. (canceled)
 26. A secure golf club holder system comprising: a golfclub holder device configured to selectively hold and cradle a handle ofa single putter; and a multi-club holder device having an adaptorconfigured to be selectively placed in and removed from said internalseat, the multi-club holder device configured to carry a plurality ofgolf clubs.
 27. The system according to claim 26, wherein said golf clubholder device comprises: a club holder having a body with aquasi-spherical shape and a recessed internal seat; an opening formed ina front of the body, the opening configured to receive a diameter of ashaft of a golf club therethrough; a through hole formed in the body tothe seat, the through hole being configured to recess a portion of ahandgrip of a golf club within the club holder while suspending aremaining length of the golf club from the body; and an attachmentmechanism integrated with a rear side of the body configured to attachthe device to a golf bag, belt, body part, or other structures.
 28. Thesystem according to claim 27, wherein the attachment mechanism includesone or a clip or a slot for attachment of a band or strap.
 29. Thesystem according to claim 28, wherein the clip is a U-shaped clip withbarbs, teeth or ledges on the interior leg surfaces to grip a golf bag.30. The multi-club holder device comprising: an elongated tubularstructure having a length, an open end and a closed end with a spike,the elongated tubular structure configured to carry up to three golfclubs; and an adaptor attached to an upper portion of the elongatedtubular structure and being configured to be vertically adjusted,selectively, with respect to the length, the adaptor being configured tosimulate a golf ball.
 31. The device according to claim 30, wherein themulti-club holder device has a generally triangular shape structure. 32.The device according to claim 30, wherein the multi-club holder devicefurther comprises a handle or a shoulder strap coupled to the elongatedtubular structure.
 33. The device according to claim 30, wherein themulti-club holder device further comprises a handle and a shoulder strapcoupled to the elongated tubular structure.
 34. The device according toclaim 30, wherein said multi-club holder device further comprises aplurality of holes vertically aligned along said elongated tubularstructure wherein said adaptor is removably and selectively attachedinto any hole of the plurality of holes.
 35. The device according toclaim 30, wherein the multi-club holder device includes an elongatedtubular structure has an isosceles or equilateral shape.
 36. The deviceaccording to claim 35, wherein each side of the elongated tubularstructure is slightly arched, curved, bowed or convexed.
 37. The deviceaccording to claim 36, wherein said multi-club holder device includes atop edge and further comprising a sheath covering said top edge.
 38. Thedevice according to claim 36, wherein said multi-club holder deviceincludes a bottom end having a spike coupled thereto, the spike beingconfigured to be pierced into ground to vertically support themulti-club holder device vertically upright.
 39. The device according toclaim 38, further comprising a tube closure element configured to becoupled and secured to said bottom end, the tube closure elementcomprising: a bottom wall having a center hub to which the spike isattached; and a plurality of radiating ribs radiating from said centerhub.
 40. The device according to claim 39, wherein said tube closureelement further comprises: a perimeter vertical wall coupledperpendicularly to the bottom wall wherein the perimeter vertical wallis friction fit coupled in said bottom end and distal ends of theradiating ribs terminate and integrate with the perimeter vertical wall.41. The device according to claim 40, wherein the plurality of radiatingribs are spaced at equidistant intervals and the bottom wall includes ahole to permit moisture air or fluid passage.
 42. The device accordingto claim 41, wherein said multi-club holder device includes a top edgeand further comprising a sheath, the sheath comprising: a perimetercovering member to cover said top edge; and a plurality of cross barmembers coupled to said perimeter covering member and to each other toform a plurality of openings wherein a respective one radiating rib liesin a plane crossing a portion of a respective one opening of theplurality of openings.
 43. The device according to claim 42, wherein theplurality of cross bar members have a Y-shape.
 44. The device accordingto claim 42, wherein said plurality of radiating ribs comprises sixradiating ribs wherein three of the six radiating ribs are aligned withand parallel to the plurality of cross bar members.
 45. A multi-clubholder device comprising: an elongated tubular structure having alength, an open end and a closed end with a spike, the elongated tubularstructure configured to carry up to six golf clubs; and an adaptorattached to an upper portion of the elongated tubular structure andbeing configured to be vertically adjusted, selectively, with respect tothe length, the adaptor being configured to simulate a golf ball.
 46. Agolf club holder device comprising: a club holder having a body with aquasi-spherical shape and a recessed internal seat; an opening formed ina front of the body, the opening configured to receive a diameter of ashaft of a golf club therethrough; a through hole formed in the body tothe seat, the through hole being configured to recess a portion of ahandgrip of a golf club within the club holder while suspending aremaining length of the golf club from the body; and an attachmentmechanism integrated with a rear side of the body configured to attachthe device to a golf bag, belt, body part, or other structures.
 47. Thedevice according to claim 46, wherein the attachment mechanism includesone or a clip or a slot for attachment of a band or strap.
 48. Thedevice according to claim 46, wherein the clip is a U-shaped clip withbarbs, teeth or ledges on the interior leg surfaces to grip a golf bag.49. The device according to claim 46, wherein the opening receives theshaft wherein a longitudinal axis of the shaft is parallel with alongitudinal axis of the through hole and wherein the handgrip has adiameter smaller than the opening; and wherein the golf club is orientedso that the handgrip is upright and the club head is oriented verticallybelow the handgrip.
 50. The device according to claim 46, wherein theclub holder includes an exterior perimeter surface configured tosimulate a golf ball.